**Mike Johnson, Tom Daschle as “sad” mood affiliates **

The speaker expresses disappointment at the behavior of Republicans and how some individuals, including the President, are undermining faith in political institutions. He highlights the need for measured responses rather than extreme reactions that can further erode trust in the system. The focus is on the collective action problem in America, where individuals prioritize narrow political self-interest over the broader national interest. The speaker criticizes actions taken solely for individual gain, such as the indictment of Donald Trump, which may not align with the collective good. Additionally, he discusses how the extended competition for the vice presidency has led to exaggerated outrage and actions that are not necessarily beneficial for the country in the long run. The speaker alludes to historical examples where injustices were covered up for the greater good and stresses the importance of considering the broader implications of individual actions in political decision-making.